How can we ensure our faith community reflects the diversity seen in Exodus 12:38? The Snapshot of Diversity in Exodus 12:38 “A mixed multitude also went up with them, along with flocks and herds—a great deal of livestock.” (Exodus 12:38) Why This Matters • The Lord did not free only ethnic Israelites; He drew in a “mixed multitude.” • From the very start of Israel’s national story, God signaled that His people would be multi-ethnic and multi-cultural. • This same pattern culminates in “a great multitude … from every nation” standing before the Lamb (Revelation 7:9). Recognizing God’s Heart for a Multicultural People • Genesis 12:3—Abraham’s blessing is meant for “all the families of the earth.” • Isaiah 56:6-7—foreigners who join themselves to the LORD are welcomed. • Ephesians 2:14—Christ “has made both groups one.” • Galatians 3:28—“you are all one in Christ Jesus.” • Revelation 5:9—Jesus “purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” Practical Steps to Reflect Biblical Diversity Today • Teach the whole counsel of Scripture, emphasizing God’s plan for all peoples. • Celebrate testimonies from different backgrounds during gathered worship. • Foster multilingual Scripture readings or songs when possible. • Equip and empower leaders who mirror the community’s ethnic variety. • Practice open-door hospitality—shared meals break down invisible walls (Acts 2:46). • Partner with local ministries that serve various cultural groups; let service knit hearts together. • Disciple children and youth with stories of God’s global mission so they grow up expecting diversity. Guarding Against Barriers That Divide • Reject favoritism (James 2:1-4). • Repent quickly of prejudice when the Spirit exposes it (1 John 1:9). • Avoid tokenism; genuine friendships matter more than optics (Romans 12:9-10). • Keep secondary cultural preferences subordinate to gospel unity (Philippians 2:1-5). Trusting the Gospel’s Unifying Power • The same blood of the Passover lamb covered Israelites and sojourners alike (Exodus 12:48-49). • Today, “the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7), creating one redeemed family. • Center every ministry, program, and fellowship around that finished work; unity follows naturally where Christ is exalted. Looking Forward to the Ultimate Gathering • Every local church is a preview of the eternal assembly. • By pursuing diversity now, we rehearse for the day when “there will no longer be any night” and “His servants will worship Him” together (Revelation 22:3-5). |
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